Kenneth Wayne Kimmell

Dr. Kenneth “Kenny” Kimmell, a prominent, well esteemed Optometrist in Sullivan County, passed from this earthly life to be with the Lord, on Monday, May 5,2025 at Union Hospital. Kenny began his life journey on January 19,1935 in Sullivan County. The son of the late Harold and Dorothy Walker Kimmell. He was a graduate of Sullivan High School. He continued his education, attending Indiana State University for his Bachelor's Degree. While attending ISU he traveled to and from Terre Haute by bus, and chose to reside in a rooming house, in Terre Haute to be close to classes. There he took a basement sleeping room, and kept the furnace stoked, to pay for his room and board. After his ISU graduation he went on to IU Bloomington Campus to complete his goal of obtaining his Optometry Degree. He received his room and board for serving and doing duties for one of the sorority houses on campus. He then joined the United States Army and served his Country until 1966, when he returned home and began his practice serving Sullivan County. His practice would  span over 47 years, with many devoted patients, who also became friends. His kind smile and gentle voice made his patients feel comfortable and appreciated.

In his early years he began his working career, setting pins for the bowling alley, delivering groceries for Ralph Shepards store, along with a paper route for the Indianapolis Star. Kenny enjoyed his golf outings with the “Rinky Dinks”. He enjoyed not only the game ,but the friendships that were built over the years with his golf buddies. He had his breakfast club early mornings, with the Hardees gang. Kenny also very much enjoyed his Saturday morning coffee with Alan Pierce. He held the  “unofficial” title of Deputy Mayor of Greenbriar.  Kenny was a member of the Sullivan American Legion #139, Sullivan VFW Post 6410,  Lifetime member of Elks #911 and the Apple Club. He attended Shelburn First Baptist Church.  Kenny left an impression on those around him, of kindness and dedication. He will be truly missed.

Those gone before him include his parents; his first wife, RuthAnn Banther Kimmell and sister, Carolyn Morris.

Those here to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Judy Turner Kimmell; bonus children, Stacy Brewer, Lee Brewer and Glen Brewer; grandchildren, Gage Huffman (Haley), Levi Whigham, Aneliese Johnson, Hannah Bond and Madelyn Brewer; nieces, Kim Layne (Jeff), Paula Followell (Doug) and Rene Craighead; nephews, Kevin Simmers (Heather) and Shawn Simmers. Several friends and extended family.

A celebration to honor Kennys life will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at Shelburn First Baptist Church from 11:00 am. until the time of service at 1:00 pm. Pastor Ben Wetherington will officiate. The family requests, in lieu of flowers, that  memorial donations be made to Brown Baggers or Sullivan Salvation Army, in Kenny’s honor. Envelopes will be available at the service.

Holmes Memorial Chapel and Staff were honored to assist the family with arrangements.